Del Monte Ad 1958

This 1958 Del Monte ad is a masterclass in making a product feel useful, beautiful, and irresistible. They didn’t just show peas—they showed what those peas could become.

Marketing analysis

The ad does three smart things: shows the can (product), a delicious finished dish (outcome), and the recipe (path to success). It gives immediate value while sneaking in product education. You could tear it out, cook from it, and remember Del Monte every time peas hit the pan.

Why it works

• Visual proof: Gorgeous food shot makes the peas look craveable.
• Practical value: Gives a recipe, not just a promise.
• Product placement: Can on the page reinforces the brand name.
• Emotional hook: “So pretty! So unusual!” sparks curiosity.

Examples

• Pillsbury Bake-Off ads turned recipes into brand loyalty.
• Campbell’s Soup recipes in magazines boosted product usage.
• Kraft’s “Velveeta casseroles” built endless mealtime memories.